MUSIC MANAGERS There are generally six types of music managers that can play a role in the careers of recording artists, record producers,

Business Manager The Business Manager (usually an accountant by trade) manages the income and expenses of the client. Business managers usually take care of making payments to musicians, background singers, roadies, tour managers, etc., on behalf of the artist. They also advise the artist on assets and investments, savings and taxes (local, state, federal, and International). Most artists are unaware that they have tax obligations that relate to their performance and licensing income, CD and merchandise sales, equipment purchases, sponsorship cash, other miscellaneous income, etc. Business managers also try to get their clients to invest in their future and save something for a rainy day since even the most successful artists eventually stop earning regular income from making records and touring.

Personal Manager The Personal manager has the most interaction with the artist and is generally the most important person in the artist’s musical life. They are involved in planning, coordinating and organizing the career of the artist. They are involved in counseling and advising the artist on all matters related to their musical careers. The personal manager should research the music industry and know all about record labels, publishing companies, producers, booking agents, promoters, publicists, stylists, photographers, recording engineers, graphic designers, video directors, music licensees, etc., and how they integrate themselves into the overall career plan. The more contacts the manager has, the more effective they will be at their job.

Most artists will interact with only one or two music managers, but it helps to know what to expect from each of them. Following is a brief description of the roles of the different types of music managers.

network Manager The network manager is invaluable during the early stages of the career of the artist. They help the artist obtain the exposure and networking contacts needed to take it to the next level. The network manager should be computer savy and know about digital marketing. They are interested in getting your internet stats up so industry execs will take notice.